Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preventive Practices Regarding Mpox in Bangladesh: Insights From a Community-Based
Hemayet Hossain1, Md Hasan Ali2, Md Abu Boccor Siddique3
1Department of Anatomy & Histology Sylhet Agricultural University Sylhet Bangladesh.
Background And Aims:
Mpox has recently re-emerged as a significant global health concern, highlighting the importance of public awareness and preventive measures. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding Mpox and its epidemiology, prevention, and control measures among the general population of Bangladesh.
Methods:
A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from June 2024 to September 2024 among 1002 participants across 16 districts, using a multi-stage random sampling approach following STROBE guidelines. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine associations between sociodemographic factors and KAP outcomes.
Results:
Out of 1002 respondents, only 37.2% demonstrated good knowledge of Mpox, while 74.0% had positive attitudes, and 80.0% reported satisfactory preventive practices. Awareness of Mpox as a viral disease was limited (37.3%), and only 22.5% knew about the protective role of smallpox vaccination. Higher education was strongly associated with good knowledge (AOR = 11.8; 95% CI: 5.61-25.8), positive attitudes (AOR = 5.68; 95% CI: 2.63-12.5), and satisfactory practices (AOR = 6.49; 95% CI: 2.62-16.8). Non-border residents were more likely to report positive attitudes (AOR = 3.07; p < 0.001) and satisfactory practices (AOR = 3.84; p < 0.001). Urban (AOR = 2.28; p = 0.003) and semi-urban (AOR = 2.19; p = 0.014) participants showed more positive attitudes. Attitudes and practices showed the strongest correlation (ρ = 0.793, p < 0.001), indicating a strong association between attitudes and preventive practices.
Conclusion:
The findings suggest that gaps in awareness and training are associated with suboptimal practices, highlighting potential areas for targeted educational interventions. Strengthening community-level awareness and preparedness may support public health readiness for potential Mpox outbreaks in Bangladesh.
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